Restrictions have been lifted to allow for the sale of alcohol and a more lenient curfew.

Last night, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation on the country’s response to the third wave of COVID-19 infections. 

For the past two weeks, the country has been on adjusted alert level 4, which was a drastic measure to try and flatten the curve of infections as quickly as possible. 

Now, South Africa has passed the peak of the third wave and the country has been placed on adjusted alert level 3. This comes as a relief to many industries but specifically so the restaurant and alcohol sector. Under the new regulations, the sale of alcohol is permitted, although only from Monday to Thursday for off-consumption enjoyment. Restaurants and bars are allowed to sell alcohol daily for on-site consumption until 20:00. 

The month-long alcohol ban has cost the liquor trade millions in revenue and profit, if not more, but sector representatives seem pleased with the government’s announcement to resume a partial trade of alcohol. 

Other regulations include a more lenient curfew, which is now from 22:00 – 04:00 daily. 

Schools are still set to resume today, which is a positive sign as the Minister of Basic Education has previously said she is deeply concerned with the fact that learners have already missed more than half of their academic year due to adapted school calendars. 

The President announced that the R350 Covid-grant will also be reinstated to support those who are jobless during this time of national crisis.

South Africans aged between 18 and 34 received the thumbs up for their vaccines as well. From 1 September, this group of people will be allowed to get their jabs as part of the country’s vaccination drive. 

Watch the full address below.